How to Care for a Brick Patio

Brick patios are attractive, functional and durable. They make great spaces for outdoor entertaining or relaxing. But even a brick patio requires regular steps to help preserve and protect it. There are simple steps to help keep your patio in tip-top shape, so you can enjoy it for years to come.

Brick patio maintenance tips

Sweep the patio at least once a week, or use a leaf blower to free it of debris and leaves. Buildups of leaves and other outdoor litter can stain the bricks; encourage the growth of mold; allow seeds from weeds, grass, and other plants to work into the crevices between the bricks; and prevents the patio from staying dry.

Clean the bricks at least two times a year with a mixture of equal parts bleach and water. Brush the patio with this mixture using a stiff-bristled brush, rinsing with clear water afterward. This will kill mildew and mold growth, and inhibit future growth.

Once a year, spread a thin layer of sand on top of the patio and brush it into the spaces between the bricks with a broom. This replenishes the sand base under the bricks and prevents excessive water seepage underneath the bricks, which can cause cracking of the bricks if temperatures drop below freezing.

Be careful not to get the bleach mixture onto ornamental plants and grass. If you do, rinse them with water to prevent damage.

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One comment

mold remediators Jacksonville

July 11, 2014 at 2:14 pm

Unfortunately, this is often ignored or minimized by non-professionals.
The cooler surfaces of a crawlspace or basement act the same as the can. Chlorine is a powerful whitener and disinfectant, but can cause negative health effects in people, plants, and animals.